Day of the Moon

by Next Gen Wonderbolt

Rating: everyone
Tags: Other, Adventure, Discord, Princess Celestia, Alternate Universe, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Philomena
Length: 13983

Luna goes on a journey of self discovery after finding out from Celestia that she was adopted.

Luna has lived a wonderful life as an alicorn, she has a sister that she cares for and has made friends along the way. All that changes after overhearing a conversation between Celestia and Discord that she was adopted by Celestia! Luna decides that it's time to get some answers and find out who she truly is, who her parents are. Shocking revelations will ensue, but will this journey be for better or for worse?

Published 2013-09-08 11:30:03 UTC
Last updated 2013-09-25 02:41:22 UTC

Prologue

Every pony knows of the Alicorn sisters Celestia and Luna, they rule over Equestria and protect it's citizens. Celestia has always treated Luna with respect and guided her like a big sister should. Luna has always looked up to Celestia as her big sister and role model, she learned everything from her. They held a bond that wouldn't be shattered, but it was.

It was bright and sunny out, most ponies were outside playing or were just outside because of how nice it was. There were few clouds in the sky and the light shone on a lone dark blue alicorn sitting in the royal gardens. The pony had a crescent as her cutie mark and stars decorated her mane and tail. Her name was Luna, princess of the night.  Luna was sitting and enjoying the sunlight when a certain mischievous phoenix landed on her head and tickled her nose with a feather. Luna felt either a sneeze or laughter coming on but didn't know which. She soon found out as she started laughing uncontrollably, then sneezed right after. Luna looked up at the phoenix  who now resided on a tree branch a few paces away.

Luna wanted to have a little fun and lunged for Philomena trying to catch her. The phoenix leaped from her perch and flew circles around Luna teasingly before heading off further into the garden. Luna gave way to a pursuit of the fiery bird and tried to catch her.

"Philomena! You shall be caught!"

Philomena gave a 'caw' out to the princess and continued to fly around, trying to avoid being tagged by Luna. The two continued to run around and chase each other for what seemed like hours. Eventually the duo stopped and rested underneath the willow tree in the center, the leaves swaying in the summer breeze. Luna took a seat on her haunches and leaned her back up against the tree. Philomena flying to a branch just above her and perching on it. Luna let her body go limp and she closed her eyes in an attempt to relax and rest up for the job of raising the moon. She was just about to dose off when the sound of two ponies arguing reached her ears.

Sitting up and perking her ears to get a better listen to the conversation, Luna was curious as to what the problem was. Luna decided to go and investigate, running a hoof through her mane to shake any of the leaves that landed in it. She glance up at Philomena and gently calling to her.

"Come Philomena. Let us go and investigate."

The phoenix simply obeyed and glided over from it's branch to it's new perch on Luna's back. The two proceeded out of the gardens passing the carious plants along the way. Their path was lined with roses and orchids on one side and dahlias and lilies on the other. Most of the flowers were in bloom and Luna stopped more than once to admire their beauty. After reaching the door back inside the castle, Luna stepped into a huge hall way stretching out both left and right. Closing her eyes to heighten her hearing again, Luna tried to deduce where the sound was coming from.

The sound was coming from the left hall so Luna started her walk down the hall, the sunlight from outside mixing with the colors of the glass in the window. The various shades of red, blue, violet, and green lighting the alicorn's path down the hall. She stopped just outside of a room with a White heart on the front, and orange light coming from the crack. She made out the voices of her own sister and Discord. Curiosity getting the better of her, Luna peeked inside the room to see Discord holding some papers in his hand talking to Celestia who was on the other side of the room staring down at the floor.

"You know you can't keep this from her forever. She deserves to know."

"Yes, Discord, I know. But what if she hates me after for lying to her? How do you think she will react when she finds out she's adopted?!"

Luna's eyes widened a bit then she put her hoof to her chin in thought.

Who's adopted? Who is Tia talking about?

Luna was drawn out of her thoughts by Discord, who had made his way across the room to the alicorn on the other side and rested a claw on her shoulder.

"Celestia, my dear, Luna needs to know the truth. I've seen her snooping around. It's better she hears it from you than from a document."

Luna backed away from the door, her eyes dilating.

I'm...adopted? No! It, it can't be true! Please Tia, don't let it be true!

Celestia turned around to look at Discord before turning her head away from his gaze. She closed her eyes shut, and Luna could just make out a lone tear that fell from her face.

"Perhaps you are right. It would be for the best that I tell her. Thank you, Discord."

The Draconequus nodded his head and replied in sincere tone.

"Anytime princess."

Celestia nodded and went back to looking through the papers. Luna noticed that Discord was making his way towards the door. Luna quickly shot up and galloped as fast as she could away from the room and from the pony who had lied to her all her life. She heard the echo of a door open and she continued to gallop, Philomena close behind keeping up with her. She didn't dare to look back, she just wanted to seal herself in her room. She had made it to her room and dove in, slamming the door shut as soon as Philomena was safe inside with her.

Luna still had her hooves on the door as she felt tears coming to her eyes. The only family she ever had, and ever known wasn't even related to her! She had never felt more alone, the reality of her adoption had left her with more questions than ever.

Who am I? Where are my parents? And why did they leave me?

Luna's strength gave out as she collasped face first onto the stone floor of her bedroom still lying in front of the door. She struggled to get up and made her way to her bed. She dove into it and let the tears flow freely. Her sobs could be heard and she didn't know that until she heard a knock on her door and a familiar voice call out to her.

"Luna? Are you alright? Look, Luna...we need to talk."

Luna reluctantly got up and opened the door to reveal her mother or sister or...she didn't even know what to call her! Celestia opened the door further revealing the puffy eyes and tear stains on the nocturnal princess. She looked horrible and noticed that she wasn't alone in the room. Philomena was sitting atop the bed post watching the two like a hawk. Trying to focus on the matter at hand, Celestia tried to embrace Luna attempting to console her but Luna pulled away and took a couple steps back increasing the distance between the two and asked a question that made Celestia stop cold.

"Why didn't you tell me? Why did you try to hide my adoption from me? WHY?!"

Luna felt fresh tears coming to her eyes, but these were tears of betrayal and confusion. The question had caught the princess off guard with how much force that was put into it. Celestia seemed to freeze up and didn't know how to respond, for fear of saying the wrong thing and ruining her relationship with the alicorn. She formed a response right away and replied to Luna in her calmest tone.

"I was afraid of how you would react, and if you would hate me after I had told you."

Luna's eyes softened at how crestfallen Celestia had looked, it was heartbreaking. She couldn't stand to see her like this, even if she wasn't even related to her.

"Tia, I would never hate you, but I need to know one thing. Please tell me you'll answer this honestly."

Celestia was now the one to bear the look of confusion before nodding to her daughter or sister...still can't make up my mind!

" You have my word Luna. Shoot."

Luna looked at Celestia intensely, staring right into the alicorn's eyes. They seemed to pierce her soul and see deep into her mind scanning for any hint of a lie. The silence plaguing the room was deafening only adding to the tension in the room. After several long moments Luna finally spoke.

"Where are my parents?"

Chapter 1

Celestia sighed heavily, she knew this would happen. Truth be told she had no idea where Luna's original parents where, they had only left a note with her when the guard had shown up with her, saying that she was out in the castle gardens. At the time Luna was too young to remember the whole thing, so the memory of her orphaning was vague.  Celestia looked at Luna and gave her the answer.

"I don't know Luna. When the guard found you in the gardens, you only had a note hidden under your wing." Celestia then got up and reached underneath her own wing to reveal the parchment. She then enveloped it in a yellow aura, giving it to Luna.

"I haven't opened it since the day I found you."

Luna took the parchment in her grasp now enveloping it in a blue aura, unfolding it as she brought it closer. She then proceeded to read it, hopefully giving some clue as to the whereabouts of her biological parents. There was nothing on it except for an address.

4432, Sungrove Dr. Manehatten.

Luna was confused to the max, wondering why in the land of Equestria, was there an address on here?! Unless it was the address of her parents house! That must be it! Luna's smile was growing now into a dopey grin. Celestia noticed this and was wondering what had gotten her so happy.

"Luna, what is it? What did the note say?"

Luna just continued smiling and didn't take notice of Celestia at all, lost in her own thoughts.

Mother and Father must be here! I have to go, I need to know why, and who I really am.

Luna was shaken out of her thoughts by Celestia's constant urging plaguing her ears. She had almost forgotten to answer her! Truth be told Luna didn't want to deal with this right now and really wanted to get on the road to Manehatten.

" It gave an address."

"Where to exactly?"

Luna looked up at Celestia with hope filled eyes.

"Manehatten."

After the location of Luna's parents was revealed, the two sister's decided it was for the best that Luna go alone. She was an alicorn after all and could certainly hold her own against most creatures in this world. Luna had her saddlebag packed, it's contents consisting of a bag of 500 bits, a journal and quill, and the address. Celestia was now giving Luna the details.

"Go down to the train station, and board the train to Manehatten. The road ahead is a treacherous one, be careful. Do you understand?"

Luna gave a quick nod of her head, the eagerness and enthusiasm showing on her face.

"Yes, Tia, everything is in order. Can I go now?"

Celestia was a little saddened to see her go, the two had forged a bond that was stronger than any others. Celestia wanted Luna to have a traveling companion, but who? Celestia looked around the room and caught just the bird. Philomena was still perched on the bed post, she was glancing around the room.

Perfect. A smile managed to sneak onto Celestia's face as she waltzed on over to Philomena. The pheonix looked at her and tilted it's head, wondering what it's owner could want? Her questioned was answered as the alicorn spoke again.

"Luna, would you mind if Philomena accompanied you on this trip? The company would be nice..."

Luna put her head down in thought for a moment, before deciding that it would be nice to have some pony, or in this case some bird, to talk to. Luna nodded in agreement at her sister, still smiling. The two sister's looked outside and saw that the sun was now starting to set. Unfortunately for Luna, her journey would have to wait until tomorrow, as flying at night was dangerous and no services would dare fly at night.

Celestia ended the note saying that she would take over Luna's moon duties for tonight, saying that she needed to rest for the travel ahead would be a long and tiring one. After Luna had gotten ready for bed and climbed in, Celestia turned and began exiting the room. She was stopped though by a soft voice calling out to her, thanking her.

"Thank you, Tia, for everything." Luna had her back to Celestia, but was happy and eager to start as soon as possible. She was oblivious to the snowy alicorn still standing in the door way, a tears making their way down her face.

"Goodnight, Luna."

"Goodnight...Tia"

Luna gave a rather loud yawn and started to doze off into her own dreams. Celestia walked out and gently closed the door. She walked over to the window and began the procedure of raising the moon. It was difficult but she had done it, now the princess walked back to her study. She opened the drawer and pulled out a document, the document that had started it all. It was Luna's adoption papers.

The fire in the room flickered and danced in the fire place, casting a shadow of Celestia on the wall. Celestia remembered the day it happened, the day Luna legally became her sister.

It was a cool autumn day, the leaves had turned to their shaded of brown, orange, yellow, and red. Falling to the ground. Celestia was at one of the local orphanages in Canterlot, filling out the necessary papers so she could adopt the alicorn. She was currently sitting in the lobby with the filly, patiently awaiting the caretaker to return. The two had been sitting for what felt like hours, Luna was clinging to Celestia's foreleg not wanting to let go. Celestia smiled warmly, knowing that after this she would add to the family. A tan earth pony walked out of the back door, her mane was a sky blue and her cutie mark was a heart with a pony in the middle. She causally walked over to the two and began talking to Celestia

"Well ,Princess, the paper work is all filled out so you two are good to go!"

Celestia smiled happily and gave a polite thank you and lifted Luna onto her back, walking out of the orphanage. She looked back towards where Luna was sitting and laughed a bit at the filly's amazement of the huge city. Her eyes were wide and she was glancing around at the various buildings and ponies bustling and going about their day.

"Welcome to the family, little one."

Luna stopped her gazing and looked at Celestia confused for a moment then smiling happily and leaping forward hugging the alicorn. Celestia nuzzled her and smiled, making her way back to the castle.

Celestia felt the tears rolling of her eyes now and onto the paper. The tear stains dampening the parchment, and making the ink run. She lifted a hoof to wipe her tears away and sat there in her study, reminiscing in the memories. Waiting for the next day to come, and for the journey to begin.

The night seemed to fly by, as Luna awoke to sunlight blinding her. She pushed the covers off and rolled out of bed, going about her daily routine. She took a shower first, using the warm water to release the tension built up in her muscles. She then proceeded to brushing her mane and getting dressed. Although today, she did not wear her tiara, no she left that behind. She grabbed her saddle bags and was about to head out to breakfast when she felt something , or someone, perch on her back. She looked back to see Philomena, waiting for her just as eager to start off as she was. She acknowledged the phoenix with joy.

"Well ,Philomena, shall we head to the dining hall for breakfast?"

The bird cawed again in response and the duo made their way to the dining hall for breakfast. Luna took one last look at her room. She would miss the castle dearly as well as her friends and Celestia, cause she was her sister, right? Luna shook her head narrowly avoiding running into the door to the dining hall. She opened it to reveal Celestia taking her seat and motioning for Luna to do the same. Luna smiled and trotted over to the princess, taking her seat and surveying her choices. Laid out before her, were and assortment of delicious foods that made her mouth water. There were pancakes, waffles, apples, toast, french toast, syrup, oranges, orange juice, milk, and scrambled eggs! If she didn't know any better Luna would think that Celestia was trying to fatten her up! Celestia giggled at Luna's reaction to the buffet laid out before her.

"Yes Luna, this is real. Eat up! Your have a long journey ahead."

Luna nodded hastily and began shoving the various items in her mouth, obviously trying to speed eat, and end breakfast early. The two had finished their breakfast and cleaned up their mess. The trio made their way out of the dining hall and towards the castle doors, heading for the train station.  They reached the castle door rather quickly and took a chariot down to the train station. Luna was looking out the window, marveling at her home, wondering when she'll ever see it again.

They sat in an uncomfortable silence and patiently awaited for their arrival. Luna saw the carious clouds obscuring her vision but she could still make out the ponies down below.

She saw Fancypants and Fleur de Lis down below entering a clothes store, she noticed Soarin and Spitfire of the wonderbolts, sitting at a resturaunt. The two were talking and then they shared a kiss. Luna pulled back surprised for a moment, she was never aware that Spitfire and Soarin were dating! Oh well, she returned back to the window and saw the same orphanage where she was adopted. A magenta pegasus was walking out with a red colt, the colt was a unicorn and was hugging his new mother, happy to finally have a family. Luna felt a tear come to her eye, it was heartwarming and she continued to watch as the two made their way down the street.

The chariot had halted in front of the train station, a train had pulled in and ponies were getting off onto the platform. The trio exited their ride and made their way up the steps and to the ticket booth. Ponies were staring at them, wondering why the royal sisters were at the train station. Luna walked up to the ticket booth and put down 10 bits.

"One ticket to Manehatten please"

The pony operating it was a little stunned to be in the presence of royalty, but hastily gave her her ticket. The train had departed and sped off into the distance with a hiss. The next train of course was the train for Manehatten. Luna and Celestia looked at each other and prepared to say goodbye.

"Luna, I just wanted to say how proud I am of you. You've come so far, and you've grown up so much. I'm going to miss you, and I hope that you find your parents."

Luna smiled sincerely.

"Thank you, Tia, I cannot thank you enough. I'm sorry for how I reacted earlier. But don't worry, I won't be gone long, and I will come back because after all, we are sister."

Celesita had never felt more happy in her life. Luna still considered her her sister! After everything. Celestia embraced Luna in a hug and Luna hugged back. Both alicorns had tears in their eyes.

"Goodbye Luna."

"Goodbye, Tia."

With their goodbyes said and the train now in the station, Luna broke away from the embrace and walked up to the door, handing the conductor her ticket. She glanced back one last time to see Celestia with tears in here eyes shouting one last thing before the doors closed.

"Take care of Philomena!"

Luna nodded and shifted her gaze to the phoenix still perched on her back. She trotted to her seat and sat down, drawing a couple stares from the ponies around her noticing that she was on a train of all things, and she was without her tiara. Luna didn't care though, She looked out the window one last time as the train took off and saw her sister on the platform waving goodbye. The train pulled farther and farther away from Canterlot until it was just a tiny little speck in the distance.

Luna looked back to Philomena and smiled as the phoenix went through her feathers. Luna simply smiled and looked out the window, waiting eagerly to get to her destination. Manehatten.

Chapter 2

The ride to Manehatten was certainly long of and was incredibly boring. Luna was glancing out the window, looking at the trees as they fly by. Scenery made into blurs from the train's speed. The bumps of the train were making it a bit uncomfortable, but do able no less. The princess was looking at the clouds making shapes out of them.

That one looks like a pegasus.

That one looks like a crown.

and that one looks like a moon.

Luna continued to make shapes out of the clouds, for a while before getting bored and looking over to her traveling companion. Philomena was sleeping soundly, her wings twitching every now and again and she was perched on the back of the seat in front of her. No doubt Luna found it adorable, and decided to let the phoenix sleep soundly. She already had questions in her mind for when she found her parents. Yes when, not if, when she found them. She vowed that she would find them and that she would find out the truth to her orphanage.

The questions were buzzing around in her head like angry bees. They were relentless.

Why did they abandon me?

Who am I really?

Luna gave a sigh of frustration, she couldn't help but feel angry at her parents! Being abandoned in itself is one thing, but at least responsible parents would leave their child at an orphanage! Not in the castle gardens in Canterlot! Who does that?! Luna had tears in her eyes, just the act of leaving her depressed her. She was shaken out of her thoughts, by a feather tickling her nose, the sensation building up inside of her begging for release.

Luna eventually gave in and began laughing uncontrollably, drawing stares from the ponies around her probably thinking that one of the royal sisters had gone insane. They all realized that the cause of the laughter was the bird tickling her nose. Luna got her laughter under control and smiled, Philomena lifting her spirits. Philomena left her perch on the alicorn and settled for the seat across from her. Luna was grateful for her traveling companion, and she wouldn't have wanted anyone else. They both sat there waiting for the train to reach their destination.

It went on for a while longer, when finally Luna heard the hiss of the brakes signal the end of their travel to the city of Manehatten. Luna departed from the train onto the platform, the city of skyscrapers in sight. Philomena took her perch on the alicorn's back, keeping a watchful eye out. Luna grabbed her saddlebags and laced them up on her back. She pulled out the address, engulfing it in her signature blue aura. Now in unknown territory, Luna proceeded to a directory trying to find a map. She started asking local ponies for directions, each one respectfully bowing before answering.

"Excuse me miss, but I have a question." The magenta unicorn she was talking to bowed and answered to the princess.

"Sure Princess Luna, what can I do for you?"

"I need some help finding this address" Luna showed the pony the address and she directed her.

"Hmmm. Ok so you want to go towards the theater, then take a left until you reach city hall. Take a right from there and you should run into it, and if you hit the bank then you've gone too far."

Luna had gotten every single word surprisingly enough, and know knew where to go. She thanked the pony for her assistance and made her way towards the theater. She glanced up at the tall buildings, they seemed to be like guardians of the city watching over her people. The streets were crowded and she was bumped into a couple of times, jealous that Philomena could fly and was hovering above her. Then she facehoofed realizing that she has wings of her own  that she can use.

Luna decided against it though because unlike Ponyvile, the population here was high, and a take off required some space to which she had none in the street. Eventually she found her way to the theater and stopped to take a break. Philomena had landed next to her on the sign that was advertising plays. Luna looked around for a while, glancing at the ponies sill running the street.

"This is so much different than Canterlot isn't it, Philomena?" The bird just cawed in response, and Luna laughed a little.

"Ok then, now where did she say to go from the theater? Was it left, or right?" Luna put her hoof to her chin in thought trying to remember the conversation.

You wanna head towards the theater and make a left...

Luna, now knowing her choice, made her way down the street to her left. Her next stop was city hall. Now in the area she was in it wasn't as crowded so she could have plenty of room, but not enough to fly up without knocking somepony out. Luna gave a sigh of frustration, she was very impatient and didn't want to waste time in the horde of ponies in the road.

Luna kept going, passing  apartments and houses along the way. City hall came into view and she was immediately excited, her parents house getting closer and closer by the minute. But another landmark came into view as well. It was the park! Luna decided that her parents could wait a little bit as she went towards the park to relax a bit. She found a bench and sat down, just enjoying the sunny weather. Philomena also took her perch next to her alicorn companion, sitting atop the bench on the back railing. She was enjoying the scenery, the trees dancing in the wind. The leaves singing along, the cool summer breeze sprinting through the park.

She looked over and saw a family playing at the playground. One purple unicorn was swinging while her father, a red pegasus, was pushing her. The filly was laughing while her dad pushed her higher and higher, the two enjoying their time together. The mother, who was a purple unicorn also, walked over to her husband and they shared a light kiss, both smiling at their daughter. Luna fought back tears, knowing that what the little filly had, she could never obtain. She still had a family at her age, Luna did not. It was too painful, clenching her eyes shut, Luna trotted away from the family and her spot. Philomena also took off from her perch and followed her, flying at her eye level.

The two made it to city hall and did as they were instructed. Luna had once again forgotten what the mare before had told her, but it came back to her in no time.

Take a right at city hall, and you should run into it. and if you hit the bank you've gone too far...

"Ok so right, come on Philomena." The phoenix responded with another caw, and the pair continued their journey to the truth. Taking the right at city hall had lead them into a shady part of town. Most of the buildings had graffiti and  were visualy destroyed. Some graffiti was just one word phrases like faith, freedom, and hate. But one piece of graffiti, no art, stood out to her. In big sharp letters was the phrase

"Unleash your true self."

Luna thought about it for a moment, admiring the craftsmen ship and the technique used to create it. The word 'Unleash' was covered with scratch marks, and the words 'true' and 'self' had fauna around it. It looked like a true work of art, obviously the handy work of some pony who has the natural talent. Luna continued forward though, leaving the artwork to be admired. It truly was a shame that some pony as talented as that would do such beautiful work, and not get recognized. Eventually she came upon the house she was looking for. It was worn down, a lot to the point where it didn't even look like a house anymore.

The paint was chipping and the roof was missing some shingles. Philomena started cawing angrily at the deathtrap, scared to even go inside. Luna pushed forward though, she needed answers no matter what. Stepping up to the house, or a shack, she took her first steps on the stairs to the patio. The wood creaked loudly and she winced at the loudness of the steps. They could have collapsed at any point, she knew that, but her determination pressed her on. Stepping onto the patio and right in front of the door that would decide it all. Shaking, Luna looked back to the street. Philomena was sitting in a tree, not daring to go inside.

Taking a deep breath she reached out slowly and very slowly. She pressed on the door knob, looking back one last time. She could still back out! She could forget everything and go back. She shook the thoughts, it was better knowing the truth than living a lie. She looked back towards the door. She took another deep breath.

And pushed it open.

Chapter 3

Luna pushed open the door to reveal...the inside of the house was still intact! Luna was shocked by this because, given how old the house was and the fact that the outside looked like a real piece of crap, it still looked nice! Luna moved about the house, she entered the living room first. The furniture wasn't covered in dust and it didn't have plastic wrap on it, odd because if this place has been sitting here as long as it did there should have been dust. Luna took in her surroundings, the couch was placed on the far left wall, and the love seat was placed next to it on the north wall. The fireplace was in the middle, blocks of wood still sitting there. There was a table stand with something on it, Luna walked over and discovered it was a photo.

The photo was of 2 ponies in front of the house. One was a Dark red unicorn with a pink mane and a quill as her cutie mark, standing next to her was a blue pegasus with a white mane and his cutie mark was of a thundercloud. The two looked very happy with their home. Luna turned the picture over looking for a date of some kind, but to no avail found it. Luna started towards the kitchen when she heard the floorboards squeak behind her. She turned her head around to see a tail disappear around the corner. Luna didn't dash after it, trying not to scare whatever it was that was hiding. She walked over to where the tail had gone and found it again rounding another corner down the hall into a room. Luna turned down the hall and reached the door and the room it was locked up in. She heard the tumblers of the lock switch into place, keeping her from opening the door.

Then  a voice sounded from the door, it's soft plea was overlooked.

"Please, leave me alone!"

Luna could make out that it was a pony and that it was a filly. Luna used her magic to unlock the door and open it quietly, revealing a unicorn that was the same shade of blue as she was. She had a violet mane and was cowering on the bed in fear. Luna walked over to the filly and placed a gentle hoof on her back.

"It's ok little one, I will do you no harm."

The young unicorn looked up with tears in her eyes and held her gaze at Luna's. The sincerity in her eyes, calmed the filly and she unfurled. Luna was more than astonished at her condition. She was severely malnourished, her rib cage showing through her skin. Luna didn't have much to eat, she only had a bundle of apples. The apples were snacks, just in case she needed the energy. Well obviously this youngling need them more than she did! Luna reached into her saddlebag and pulled out an apple, tossing it towards the filly. She caught it with her horn, struggling to levitate the apple to her hooves.

Luna felt pity towards the filly. She was curious to however where her parents were.

"So...where are your parents?" The unicorn cringed, and looked at her half eaten apple before responding.

"They're...dead." Luna was shocked, she gave the filly a sincere apology before continuing.

"Well can I at least know your name?"

"I, uh don't have one, or at least I don't know it."

Luna was again shocked by this. But the more she thought about it the more this filly was like her! She didn't have a family, only Luna was lucky that she was found by Celestia, but the concept still remains. Luna couldn't let this filly go without a family, she didn't want the filly to go through what she did.

"You said you don't have any family?" The unicorn nodded again, and Luna smiled which gave way to a questioning glance from the filly.

"Well, do you know who I am?" This time the filly nodded quickly.

"Yeah! You're Princess Luna!" Luna smiled the the filly's excitement.

"Well then, how would you like to be apart of my family? I could adopt you once we get back to Canterlot."

The unicorn went wide-eyed for a moment. She just couldn't believe it! Luna, of the royal sisters, wanted to adopt her! She finally had a family, and she wouldn't want any other pony to be her mother. She jumped forward at Luna, embracing her and hugging her around the neck.

"Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Thank you so much princess! Just, THANK YOU!"

Luna giggled at the unicorn's enthusiasm, she felt a warm feeling in her heart. She was happy that now the filly had a family of her own. But there was still a question left unsaid. Where were Luna's parents?

The duo left the house, a symbol of many things, but for them? Family. The two walked outside to meet a phoenix flying around in the tree. She was chasing a squirrel when she noticed the two ponies exiting the house. She flew over and landed on the filly, cawing at her in a friendly way. The unicorn laughed at Philomena, the amusement making Luna smile. But something came to mind right at that moment, what is she going to call her?! She said she didn't know her name so, what can I call her? Luna looked over towards the filly.

"Now then, what should your name be?" The filly stopped her giggling and looked at Luna very puzzled, then looked at the ground.

"I-I don't know, could...could you maybe, think of a name for me? Since now your my mom..."

"Yes, of course." Luna pondered for a moment, she gazed at the filly again, she had the exact same color coat as her, but had a violet mane, and was a blank flank. She was like a mini her! Then it hit her.

"How about Crescent? Since you resemble me so well." Crescent looked at her for a moment, testing out the name in her mind. She liked it! It suited her well, since a crescent moon is almost a full moon, and Luna is like a full moon right? Crescent it was!

The young filly now known as Crescent hugged Luna tightly again, the alicorn returning the hug. She looked down when she felt wet spots on her fur to see tears in Crescent's eyes, but they weren't tears of sadness. No they were tears of joy, she had everything she could have ever wanted, a family, a home, a mother, even a name for god's sake! She could not have been happier, and as the two were sharing a moment something shimmered in the trash can near the sidewalk. It caught Luna's eye as she broke from the embrace, scooping up Crescent and putting her on her back, the filly looking at where Luna was looking. The same object spiking their curiosity, and drawing them both near.

As they got closer, it was an envelope, with a pin going through it.Luna picked it up holding so that both her and her daughter could see, She opened it to reveal a piece of paper. It was a divorce paper, that had the  custody of one child on there. Luna's name was in bold print, the other names smudged. Frustration rising, Luna threw the paper on the ground, exchanging it for the envelope. She scanned the front, looking for the return address. The writing was ineligible and the pair could only make out one word, Canterlot.

"Mommy, what are we going to do now?"

Luna looked up at the filly who now had her hooves on Luna's head and was looking down at her. Luna sighed heavily, of course she would have to go back to Canterlot! Of course, except this time, she would not be coming back alone. Luna looked up at Crescent, who was still looking at her and turned back towards the house, Philomena landing on her back and cawing.  Luna gave another sigh and prepared for the journey back to Canterlot. She looked at Crescent and answered her quesiton.

"We are going to Canterlot."

The trio made their way back to the theater where it had begun, Crescent had never seen the inner city before, and was amazed at how marvelous it looked. She was dumbstruck by how high the buildings were. They reached the train station in no time and followed suit with the procedure of getting tickets. Luna walked up to the ticket booth and placed her order.

"Two tickets for Canterlot please."

The pony running the booth responded politely and gave Luna her tickets, Luna thanked her and walked back to where Crescent and Philomena were. The two were chasing each other and when they saw Luna coming back immediately sat back down on the bench. Philomena was feeling mischievous, and tickled Crescent's nose, making her suppress a giggle. Luna walked up and smiled, it was adorable seeing the two play like that. Heartwarming to say the least, and Luna was glad that she had adopted the filly. Well not officially but the concept still stands.

Luna gave Crescent her ticket and the two got to know each other, Luna told Crescent about how she was adopted by Celestia as well and was currently on a journey to discover her heritage. Crescent was amazed, her mother the adventurer. Luna had also told her about Ponyville and how nice the ponies there were. Luna never really thought about it, but after this was all over, she might move to Ponyville The atmosphere was nice and was good for a little one like Crescent to grow up in. Plus, the Cutie Mark Crusaders could add another member to their growing group.

"Crescent, if you don't mind me asking, what were you doing in that house?"

"Well, I was living there of course!"

"Really?"

"Yeah! I would sleep during the day and would go out at night and grab food from the stands in the market. Sometimes I even go out to the park to play! Although, it is only at night because I'm scared of what the other foals might do if they see me..."

She trailed off ,eyes downcast and she remained that way until she was enveloped in a hug from her mother. Luna was tearing up, she just wanted to let Crescent know that no matter what, she would be there for her. Crescent seemed to get the message as she hugged back and murmured 4 words that meant the world to Luna.

"I love you mommy."

"I love you too, Crescent."

The two stayed like that until they heard the train arrive at the station. The sun was already descending over the horizon, nightfall approaching quickly. Luna and Crescent boarded the train, Philomena not far behind, handing the conductor their tickets, took their seats and awaited the train's departure. Crescent sat next to Luna, giving an adorable little yawn, resting her head against her mother's side. The alicorn smiled and wrapped a wing around her daughter, pulling her in tight. Crescent smiled at Luna and gave another yawn before drifting off to sleep. Luna smiled warmly, the sight bringing her to tears again, joyful tears.

Was this what Tia felt like when she was raising me?

Luna assumed so, as she continued to gaze at her daughter. Their new lives had begun, but questions were still left unanswered. Luna assured her self that the truth would be revealed, once they got to their next destination. The place where it had all began. Canterlot!

Chapter 4

The train ride to Canterlot was again long and stretched out. Shortly after departure, Luna had also fallen asleep with Crescent in her lap. The train wasn't running as fast as it normally would, the sun had set and it was a clear starry night. You could see every constellation, from Ursa Minor to Orion. Luna was asleep right now, the day before had worn her out, and she didn't know how much longer it would be until this whole thing was finally over. Suddenly, she jolted awake, waking herself from a horrid nightmare. She looked around frantically at first trying to get a grasp on her surroundings. She quickly calmed herself, realizing that it was just a dream.

But, it felt so...real.

She had dreamed that she had lost everything.

She was in an orphanage, Crescent wasn't there, and Celestia hadn't adopted her. She was alone in a room, all alone. Her only company the wind outside, and a lit candle by the bedside. She was sitting on a bed, the only object in the room, which was colored tan. A brown door had opened to reveal the caretaker, her silhouette amplified by the light behind her. She had  told her that no one would adopt her, the thought of raising an alicorn scared most of the ponies who came in.

Luna felt tears come to her eyes. She was trying to blink them back, clenching her eyes shut. She would not dare to open them until a soft sound from below caused her to open her eyes. Looking down, Luna saw Crescent give a tiny yawn and roll over, her back now towards the night princess. The moonlight was shining through the window, glimmering off Crescent's violet mane. Her dark blue coat seemed to shine with stars, Luna was amazed at how beautiful she looked in the moonlight. She was like a lunar angel, given to her to raise among ponies in her parent's absence.

She was so awestruck by her appearance, that she didn't notice when the filly she was admiring was awake and questioning her.

"Mommy, why are we going to Canterlot again?"

Luna sighed, she really didn't want to tell this story again. But she wanted her to know, she was technically her child. Even if it wasn't official yet.

" Crescent, the reason we are going to Canterlot is because I'm trying to track down my parents. I do not believe I told you, but I was adopted by Celestia." -Crescent's eyes widened- " I had found out 2 days ago when I overheard her and Discord talking about telling me. I didn't mean to eavesdrop on them, but curiosity got the better of me. I was furious at first, but Celestia had come in and had explained why she didn't tell me sooner. I asked her where my birth parents were and she gave me this piece of paper." Luna pulled out the piece of paper with the address on it.

" This address was my only clue, and I had gone to the house where you were living, hoping to find some sort of evidence that my parents were somewhere. But I did not find any, except for the letter in the trash. It was a divorce paper, with my name on it claiming custody of me. It must have been my mother, seeing as the judge rarely gives custody of children to the father. Anyway, the return address on the letter came from Canterlot, so we're going to pay the post office there a little visit in the morning."

"Morning?"

Crescent looked outside to see that it was still dark outside, the moonlight still shining through the window, lighting her up. She yawned again, and Luna took this as her cue to put the filly to bed again. Luna put a hoof on Crescent's head and stroked her mane. The filly sighed happily and started to feel her eyes grow heavy. She started drifting off, she couldn't have opened her eyes if she tried, sleep was just to satisfying for her! She was loosing consciousness and finally let sleep claim her. When Luna was sure Crescent was asleep, she returned to her own thoughts. She honestly had no idea what she would do when they got back to Canterlot. She had hoped that she would have found something more, revealing, something that would help solve the mystery of her parents.

Luna had thought for a moment, she couldn't find the answer with useless leads, should the letter be one. She needed an alternative, something that would piece together some of the pieces of the puzzle. Then it hit her. A memory spell! She could cast the spell on herself and try to uncover hidden memories. She had seen Celestia do it tons of times on the ponies who had amnesia, who would walk into her sister's throne room and would plead for their memory to be restored. Luna knew it was a long shot since she didn't have amnesia, and she wouldn't lose any memories should the spell fail.

Luna prepared to cast the spell on herself, she focused her energy her signature blue aura glowing around her horn. With a flash of light, Luna closed her eyes and the scene shaped. It was familiar, too familiar. It was nighttime and she was surrounded by fauna, she knew that she was in a garden, but where? The only garden she had ever been to was, the castle gardens!

Now that she knew where she was, the question was what was she doing there? He questioned was answered, as a cloaked pony leaped into the garden. The pony landed gracefully, not making a sound. They walked over to the koi pond, an infant's crying now made clear as they set down a foal near the pond. The cloaked figure to their hood off, revealing the pony to be a mare, her features not clear but somewhat visible in the moonlight. She was a cobalt mare with a indigo mane. She leaned down towards the foal, whispering words into her ear.

"Shhhh, it's ok now. It's ok, you're going to be fine now. Have faith in your mother."

The foal stopped crying, Luna had been standing in the same space for a while now, and started to making her advance towards the pair. As the moonlight shifted, the foal's face was revealed. It was a filly that looked oddly familiar, frankly it looked a lot like her. Wait, it was her! The pony in the cloak was her mother! Luna wasn't paying attention and only caught the last line her mother said before she took off into the night, her hood back up and covering her face.

"I love you, and be safe."

And with that her mother disappeared around a corner into the darkness. Luna wanted to shout, to call back to her mother! But found that she was silent, she couldn't speak! Luna panicked and galloped off in the direction her mother had left in, she couldn't and wouldn't lose the trail. Luna kept galloping, but the world around her was falling apart. She was now running in blackness, she ran until she fell. She kept falling into an abyss that never ended. She just wanted it to end.

She got her wish as she suddenly jolted awake. She was sweating and she had nearly woken Crescent up in the process. She was gasping for breath, and was panting heavily. It was frightening to say the least. A nightmare that was all too real. Luna shook her head to clear her mind and hopefully calm herself down. She was a little uncomfortable sleeping upright on the seat, and proceeded to lie down on the bench. She had forgotten about the sleeper car, and was certain that most of the beds were filled with ponies that had beaten her to a bed.

Using her magic, she lifted Crescent up and layed down on the bench, getting as comfortable as she could get. She laid there and rolled on her side quickly, placing Crescent down on the bench right next to her. After she had gotten Crescent all settled, she rolled back onto her stomach and put a wing around the filly, her response was snuggling closer to her new mother. Luna smiled at this and was slowly drifting off. She murmured 3 words into Crescent's ear that resulted in a smile from the sleeping filly.

"Good night, Crescent."

"Goodnight mom."

Luna smiled and rolled her eyes. Crescent was smarter than she lead on. Luna felt sleep creeping up on her, keeping her eyes open was getting more and more difficult. She thought about the past events, she was now a mother of a bright young filly, who resembled her quite  well.

I'm a mother now.

She smiled warmly at the thought. She felt a surge of joy and warmth consume her body and mind. She had never felt more happy and at last let sleep overtake her.

It was morning, the break of dawn to be precise, and the sun was just starting to peek over the horizon. The first rays of light shining through the window, and onto the face of an alicorn and a filly, sleeping on a seat. Luna was sleeping soundly, but when the light of the sun shone through it shone right on her closed eyelids. She cringed at first, then slowly opened her eyes. The sunlight was bright and Luna put a hoof up to block it, she pulled down the blind in an attempt to block the sunlight. Unfortunately the light still managed to get through enough for Luna to toss the idea of sleep and get up.

Luna stretched out her arms and wings, working out the kinks. She felt incredibly relieved of her tension, like a tidal wave had come and washed all of her tension away. She stood up on her hooves and did some neck rolls, trying to stretch out her neck. After completing her routinely stretches, she turned to the unicorn sleeping on the bench. Crescent was sleeping soundly on the bench, she looked peaceful, but of course Luna had a brilliant idea on how to wake her up. Luna walked into the bathroom on the other end of the car and stepped inside. Turning towards the faucet, she ran the water cold until it was freezing. Picking the water up in her magic, Luna walked back to where Crescent was sleeping.

She cast a dry coating spell on the seat as to not get it wet. Luna held the water above Crescent's head and she formed it into a bubble. She held the bubble over Crescent's head, lowering it towards her horn until...

splash

The bubble had popped, dowsing both Luna and Crescent in the freezing water. Crescent shot awake, her eyes wide with surprise and she jumped from the sub-zero temperature. Luna was also shocked, she hadn't expected that to happen, she also didn't expect to see Crescent looking at her with tears in her eyes. They were streaming down her face, and they wouldn't stop. Luna had never felt worse in her entire life, it was like having a part of her heart stepped on rapidly.

"Why did you do that mommy?"

Luna honestly didn't know, she thought it would be funny and they both would laugh it off. But she forgot one factor. Crescent was a filly. She couldn't handle the jokes that Luna would play on other ponies her age. She just couldn't handle it.

"I'm sorry Crescent, I don't know why. I made the mistake of thinking you were older than you actually are. Come here" Luna opened up her still soaking hooves.

Crescent hesitated a bit and jumped at her mother, she was scared from the sudden dowsing. They both hugged each other  sharing the cold between them. Luna's horn lit up and they both were dry instantly. Crescent smiled as the warm light of the sun lit them up, the warmth enveloping the two and sharing it in the embrace. They broke apart as a loud buzzing went over the intercom.

"Attention all passengers, we are now approaching Canterlot station."

Luna smiled, their destination in sight.

Well, here we go. You ready?" Crescent shook her head up and down rapidly, her mane flipping up and down in a wild fashion.

"Yep! I can't wait to see Canterlot!"

Luna chuckled a bit at the filly's enthusiasm. They both heard the trains brakes hiss, signaling a stop. They looked at each other and nodded, Philomena flew in and perched herself on Luna's back, cawing excitedly. They all had formed a bond that wouldn't be broken. In the short time they were all together, they had their moments and had fun. The journey was not yet over, and they knew that. As the train doors opened and the light flooded in, they all nodded to each other again, and took their first steps into the station.

Chapter 5

Luna, Crescent, and Philomena all left the train and stepped onto the platform at Canterlot station. Luna took in a breath of summer air, the humidity was suffocating, and the heat was evident as it blasted the two as they stepped onto the platform. Crescent doing the same, and exhaling rather quickly. Philomena took off behind the two and went skywards, her excited chatter sending the pair on the ground a message that she was glad to be free. Luna and Crescent both giggled a bit, finding Philomena's display to be amusing. Their amusement was cut short as the two heard grumblings from down below. They both looked down at their stomachs, they both heard another roar and the laughter was unleashed.

"I suppose we should go and find something to eat." Luna said to Crescent after she had gotten her laughter under control.

"Yep! Sooooo let's go!"

Crescent started galloping into town, leaving her mother behind at the platform. Luna chuckled at the unicorn's excitement, it was refreshing to say the least. Luna trotted off after her, marveling at the city before her. The city itself was magnificent, but the ponies that lived in it were a bunch of the snobbiest ponies Luna had ever met. Crescent hadn't been exposed to this back in Manehatten. How could she have been, quite frankly she was living in the ghetto's which was even worse.

Crescent ran ahead of Luna and Philomena into the bustling streets. Today though not any ponies were out and about, Luna was puzzled at first but considered it a blessing. Now she and Crescent could walk the streets without being interrupted. The matter at hand though was in fact the thought of getting food. Crescent was looking into a store with her face plastered against window, her eyes were gazing around wildly at the various items in the window. She stopped only when she heard her stomach grumble. Feeling a hoof on her shoulder, she turned at see Luna smiling at her. She looked as though she was expecting her to hear her tummy rumble. Crescent had a blush staining her cheeks, Luna was trying her hardest not to break out. In the end it ultimately failed and Luna burst out laughing, Crescent starting to join in on the fun.

Luna stopped laughing when it was her stomach's turn to grumble, which in turn made Crescent laugh even harder. Luna smiled and rolled her eyes at the filly on the ground laughing.

"Alright, fun's over. Now where would you like to eat?"

Crescent stopped her giggling and looked around at the restaurants available, one catching her eye fairly quick.

"I want to go to that one! The Squi-ree." Luna looked over to where Crescent was pointing.

"You mean the Squire?"

"Yeah! Please mommy."

Crescent looked at Luna with big eyes, like the ones the cutie mark crusaders used on their sisters to get their way. Luna thought she was an iron wall when filly's did this, but Crescent wasn't an ordinary filly. So Luna was easily swayed by her. Damn her and her cuteness! Luna sighed and nodded, watching as her daughter leaped for joy.

"YAY!!!!"

The excited unicorn galloped off towards the eatery, Luna lagging a bit behind her. She loved how the excitement and happiness exerting off the filly was enormous. It made her smile to the point where it started to hurt. Philomena landed on her back and she trotted off towards Crescent who was now waiting by the podium near the entrance. A white stallion with a brown mane was manning it, seeing the alicorn approaching he quickly bowed and greeted her.

"Ah, Princess Luna! How can I help you today?" Luna smiled politely and gave her answer.

"Table for two please." The waiter looked around with a confused look. Luna was wondering why and was about to question him when he said it all.

"But Princess, who else are you sitting with?" Luna motioned down with her head signaling the waiter to look down at the unicorn filly hiding behind Luna's leg. The waiter smiled and nodded in understanding.

"Right this way."

Luna motioned with her foreleg for Crescent to follow the waiter, he had set them up at an outdoor table and gave them their menus.

"Here you are ladies. And here's a menu for the little one." He smiled at Crescent, who in turn smiled back and took her seat. She hopped up onto the chair and picked up her menu, laying it flat on the table and browsing it's contents intensely.

Luna took her seat as well and thanked the waiter for his service.

"And I will be right back for you orders."

And with that, he sped out of sight. Luna looked over at Crescent who seemed to have found something and was happy with her choice. Luna hadn't even opened the menus yet, but decided to play it safe and just order something simple. The stereotypical salad seemed simple enough. Luna had read enough novels to know that when the pony didn't know what to order, they ordered a salad. It was just past noon, the face clock hanging on the pole said that the time was approximately 12:05.

Luna didn't know what to do, there was only enough time for her to do one of two things. She could either take Crescent to see her aunt, Celestia, or head to the post office and discover what the letter meant. Luna was stuck between a rock and a hard place. The pros of going to see her sister. Crescent would be happy to met her aunt, and that alone was good enough to send her off. Unable to think of anymore pros, she went to cons. Her discovery would be delayed another day, and no doubt Celestia would question her motives for taking in Crescent.

Now looking towards the path towards the post office. Pros, she would come closer to finding her parents and it would rid her of the painful questions of her abandonment. Cons, Crescent would no doubt be tired from the trek, the letter could be a dead end and leave her with even more questions. Luna was at war, and didn't even notice when the waiter had showed up to serve them.

"Uh, Princess? I'm here to take your orders." Luna shook her head and looked at the waiter then the menu, back and forth back and forth.

"Ah, yes um...I'll have a..." On second thought, the shrimp de fleur looks delcious. And I can share it with Crescent.

"The shrimp de la fleur please. Crescent, dear we can share that one. How does that sound?" Crescent nodded and smiled big.

"Delicious!" Luna giggled and turned towards the waiter again.

"And for the drinks?" Luna turned back towards her menu. None of the drinks seemed good, except for the raspberry tea. She had that at Fluttershy's once when she was visiting and it was amazing.

"I'll have the raspberry tea please. What about you, Crescent?"

"Hmmmm, I guess I'll have what she's having too please." The waiter nodded.

"I'll be right back with your drinks mares." The waiter left in a hurry, Luna knew that their order wouldn't be long because of how there weren't any ponies around.

Luna gazed around a bit, she never really got to admire the city itself with all the snobs ruining her day. She saw Philomena perched up above the face clock. She was apparently sleeping, Luna rolled her eyes and turned back to Crescent.

"Crescent, we have two choices. We could either go see my sister, or we can head to the post office and see who sent this letter."

Crescent looked at her mother for a minute, thinking hard about her choice. She really wanted to see Celestia, but at the same time she wanted her mother to have closure. Now she was the one stuck between a rock and a hard place.

"I really don't know. I guess whatever you want to do is fine with me."

Crescent then smiled and Luna smiled back. She thought herself lucky to have such a wonderful filly  as her daughter. Just as Luna opened her mouth to speak, the waiter returned with their food. The steam emitting from the shrimp was intense. The scent of the seafood was intoxicating, it floated through the air towards the pair's open noses.

Luna closed her eyes in bliss, starting to feel her mouth water from the scent alone. Crescent was eagerly awaiting the waiter to put it down, eyeing the food like a hungry lion eyeing a wildebeest. At one point Luna thought the indigo filly would leap onto the waiter and take the food herself! The waiter had finished placing everything down on the table and was just now setting down their drinks, he was also kind enough to leave some bird seed for Philomena.

Well now, isn't he the gentlecolt.

Luna knew that this waiter would be getting a nice tip for his services. The waiter bowed to Luna out of respect.

"Enjoy your meal."

"Thank you."

The waiter nodded and took another bow and hurried out of sight. The two ponies stared at their meal hungrily, the scent was inviting them to try it. Luna went for the kill, picking up a piece and opening her mouth. She closed her eyes and bit down, on her own hoof! Her eyes shot open and she withdrew her swollen hoof from her mouth. Her eyes shifted wildly around looking for the piece that had eluded her, only to see Crescent wave the same piece in front of her and eat the whole thing in one bite. Luna's mouth hung open, while Crescent tried suppressing her laughter.

That little sneak! She stole my shrimp!

Crescent couldn't hold it in anymore as she burst out laughing, Luna shot a glare, then eased up and started laughing too. It was rather funny, and ridiculous at that.

"Alright, fun's over, let's eat!"

Crescent managed to stop the giggles and picked up her drink. She put it to her lips and took a sip. Right as the liquid hit her taste buds, her eyes shot open. The sensation pulsing through her mouth was amazing! The tea tasted so good and was making her tongue dance in her mouth, begging for more. It held a sweet taste with a savory aftertaste.  Luna loved the reaction Crescent gave when she drank her tea. She was practically downing the whole cup! Luna shifted her gaze to the item in her hoof, she opened her mouth and kept her eyes open this time to protect her food. She brought it up and bit down.

The shrimp had a mildly spicy taste, it was rejuvenating to Luna. Like all her troubles were gone after eating this one shrimp. She reached for more and stuffed her mouth full of the seafood. The two sat there eating like ravenous creatures. Philomena was watching from a distance and put a wing over her beak in embarrassment. She then let out a caw and proceeded to eat her food.

The sun was starting to set on the day, clouds rolling in to mask it's shining glory. It was peaking out at the streets of Canterlot, a lone glimmer of light settling on two ponies walking home. Luna looked over at Crescent, she truly was a special filly. She was her own star, her own lunar beauty. She was both excited and dreading telling Celestia about the recent adoption. She knew that Celestia would either be peeved at her for doing so, or take it well. She was about to find out because they had reached the castle doors. Luna was a little worried, and she was even more worried when she saw Crescent shaking in her hooves.

Luna put her hoof on Crescent's back, calming her as she looked into her mother's eyes. There was a moment of trust within each other, and that gave them both the final push they needed to open the door into the chamber. Luna used her magic to place Crescent on her back, and proceeded down the large hall. Crescent gazed in awe at the windows gracing the room. She saw one that intrigued her, it was of a purple unicorn, a white unicorn, a cyan pegasus, an orange earth pony, a pink earth pony, and a yellow pegasus. They were all shooting beams at a figure at the top.

"Mommy who's that?" Luna looked to where Crescent was pointing.

"That's Twilight Sparkle Crescent, the white one is Rarity, the yellow one is Fluttershy, the pink one is Pinkie Pie, the orange one is Applejack, and the blue one is Rainbow Dash."

"Oh, what are they doing?" As Luna opened her mouth to answer, she heard a familiar voice approach and answer the filly's question for her.

"They are defeating Discord little one."

Crescent jumped a bit, obviously startled by the sudden voice change. She looked over timidly to see Celestia standing there smiling at her. Luna rolled her eyes and lowered her back so Crescent could get off. Philomena had perched herself on Celestia's back. Luna walked forward and gave her sister a hug. The two broke apart and Celestia looked back at the filly who had hidden behind Luna's hind leg. Luna glanced back at Crescent and giggled, lifting the unicorn onto her back.

"Well now, Luna, who is this young little filly?" Luna looked back at Crescent and nodded at her.

"Go on, tell her your name." Crescent peeked her head around her mother's head and glanced downward.

"M-my name's...Crescent."

Crescent looked a little frightened and Celestia was a little shocked as to why her sister had brought a filly back with her.

"So, Luna, care to explain?" Luna sighed and nodded.

"Well you see, Tia, while I was in Manehatten I had found the house, and inside was little Crescent here. She didn't know her name and had no parents to raise her. So I decided to raise her myself. It's not official yet, but I plan to adopt her."

Celestia was utterly dumbstuck, this was certainly unexpected.

"Luna, how do you plan on raising a filly when you are a princess and have royal duties? And quite frankly, the schools around here aren't exactly, marvelous, when it comes to ponies who are out of town."

"I plan on giving up my royal duties, and moving to Ponyville. That town has a fantastic atmosphere for a youngling like herself. I know you don't want this, Tia, but I will not change my mind."

Celestia just gawked at her sister. She could not believe what she had just heard! Her sister, princess of the night, co ruler of Equestria, was giving up her royal duties and moving out of Canterlot! It was overwhelming. Neither sister had noticed that it had gotten dark outside fairly quick. Luna was the first to notice and motioned for Crescent to follow her.

"Tia, if you don't mind I would love to tell you everything, but I need to get Crescent ready for bed. She picked up Crescent and trotted off towards her room. Celestia was still standing there, a million thoughts going through her head, but one stood out in particular.

She's a mother now...

Chapter 6

Luna opened the door to her old room, it was just as she left it. The room was shrouded in darkness and the bed was still made. The closet was a mess though, items were scattered everywhere around the room. Luna's gaze wasn't on the mess or the room itself for that matter. The one thing that managed to stare her down was the abandoned tiara still sitting on the nightstand. It seemed to be glaring at her, like it was furious.

I need to be rid of it. It will only be a reminder of what I left behind.

Luna proceeded  to the nightstand, Crescent peering around her head to see what she was doing. When she saw the tiara, she didn't know what to say. It looked rather pretty, and she thought that it would be nice to wear at times. Her thought was shaken when she saw Luna pick it up and walk towards the window. The moon was out in and it's clarity was stunning, the moonlight hit her and she felt like she could take on the world. It was revitalizing, like she was a new pony. She looked to where the tiara was held in the blue aura and watched as it was flung from the balcony. Crescent was shocked for a moment, why would her mother throw such a lovely thing away?!

"Mommy, why did you throw the tiara? Didn't you like it?" Luna stared the filly in the eyes.

"Crescent, that tiara is a reminder of who I was, and what I'm going to leave behind. You are a reminder of who I am now, and who I need to be to take care of you."

Crescent stared at her mother for a while longer, taking in everything before she leaped and enveloped her mom in a hug. She considered herself lucky to have a mother like Luna to take care of her. She had a family, one that would stick with her through thick and thin. Luna was a bit caught off guard by the sudden leap, but quickly recovered and returned the hug.

"I love you mommy." Luna smiled big.

"I love you too, Crescent." Crescent smiled bigger. The two stayed there until Crescent let out a loud yawn.

Luna let out a giggle and lifted Crescent off of her. Crescent yawned again, sending up a red flag for Luna that she was tired. Luna smiled again and carried the filly to bed. She laid her down and pulled the blanket over her. She went over to her closet and pulled out a pegasus. She put it next to Crescent on the bed and grinned when she saw her clutch it tight. It was absolutely heartwarming, Luna carefully shuffled to the door and left the room. She peered inside one last time to make sure she was asleep. Luna closed the door as quietly as she could, but couldn't suppress a creak emanating from the door. She let out a sigh and turned around just in time to nearly have a collision with her sister.

"You ready to explain?" Luna sighed again and lowered her head.

Well, I knew she would want an explanation. Didn't think it would be so soon though.

"Yes sister, but do you mind if I have a drink?" Celestia nodded and Luna called over one of the workers.

"Could I have a raspberry tea please?" The worker nodded and raced off for the requested drink.

"So, Luna, how did the trip go? Any clue as to the whereabouts of your parents?" Luna nodded.

"Yes, Tia, the trip went well. Manehatten was a bit of trouble but nothing too bad. Also, I only have this envelope that I found in the trash." Luna revealed the envelope and Celestia took it in her magic. She opened it to reveal the papers inside.

"Well, Lulu, these papers have your name on them, and that's it. Why is it important?" Luna facehoofed.

"Sister! I told you not to call me that! As for the papers, look at them closely. They are divorce papers but someone has taken custody of me. And I have yet another revelation, I used the memory spell you use on those ponies with amnesia. I was  able to uncover more of my adoption."

Celestia looked at Luna with interested eyes now. Her pupils dilated and they were fixated on Luna specifically.

"Please explain."

"Well, I was in the gardens and I saw a hooded figure leap over the wall. She placed a basket near the koi pond in the back. The moon wasn't very bright so I couldn't see a face. What I did see though was a filly in the basket that resembled me. I did not think it was me until I got a better look. It was me in the basket as a filly. I was shocked at first, then realized that the hooded pony was my mother. After she leaped away into the gardens I tried to follow but after that everything fell apart."

Celestia went through 3 emotions, surprise, amazement, and confusion. She had never known that a pony could use a memory spell on themselves to discover hidden memories. She focused back on her sister though, she still had a question unanswered.

"But why did you take the letter back here to Canterlot?" Luna's drink finally arrived and she took a sip before continuing.

"The return address was smudged to the point of it being illegible and I could only make out the word Canterlot. So I came back here, hoping to get to the post office today and see who sent it."

Celestia smiled. She knew that the post office records were in her study. She had always recorded who sent what letter and judging by it's appearance, Celestia could use a restoration spell to recover the smudged writing. Celestia's horn lit up as Luna went to take another sip. She brought the letter in front of her and concentrated. Slowly but surely, the words started to form. Along with the parchment inside. It was to the point where the papers and the envelope's contents would be clear. Celestia took out the papers and looked at them. Everything was accounted for except for a word that not only was smudged, but crossed out as well.

She could make out a name of the pony who had custody of her. Sunny Day? Hm, I know I've seen that name before...but where? Then it hit her, Sunny Day was Luna's mother! Then that must mean that the father was...

"Luna-" Luna looked up from her drink "- I know who your parents are."

Celestia winced from the sound of glass shattering. One glance told her that Luna had dropped her cup and the drink was spreading across the floor. Luna's mouth was open wide and she stared at her sister wide eyed.

"Tia, you'd better not be lying." Luna gave Celestia the most intense glare she had ever seen.

"No, Luna, I am not. Your mother's name was Sunny Day and your father's name was Swift. I assure that's all I know."

Luna stared at her sister, it had finally been revealed! But the question as to the whereabouts of the two ponies was still a mystery. Luna gazed downward in thought. What if Celestia was still hiding something? What if she knew where they were but neglected to tell her.

"Tia, do you know where they are? And don't lie to me! I can see you are trying to hide something."

Celestia looked down, mentally cursing her sister for her detective skills.

Damn! How could she tell?!

While Luna's thoughts were a bit different.

I hope she buys my bluff.

Celestia sighed and opened her mouth to speak.

"Yes, Luna, I do know where, but you may not want to know."

Luna pumped her hoof in success that her sister had bought her lie. Then Celestia's statement kicked in, fear surged through her mind. What did Celestia mean when she said that she didn't want to know where they were?! What had happened to them?!

"Tia, please. Where are my parents? What happened to them?!" Celestia just looked down and didn't answer. Tears were forming in her eyes, but they got blurred out as Luna felt tears rush to her eyes too.

"Dammit, Celestia, where are they! Please...."  Luna had now broken down, the strength inside being depleted from the revelation. But the strength returned along with denial.

:"Well you're, you're, you're wrong! I'll prove it!" With adrenaline and fear coursing through her veins, Luna leapt into the air and flew towards one of the windows lining the corridor. She smashed through it and headed off into the town.

Celestia shook herself from her state of shock when she heard the window shatter. She looked around wildly when her eyes rested on a piece of the window. It was of Nightmare Moon, obviously from the window from when her student and the other elements of harmony defeated the evil deity. Celestia looked out the window one last time and looked back at the piece. She lifted her hoof, and stomped on the picture, shattering it on impact.

"Left in the past."

Luna felt the wind whistling in her ears as she zoomed towards the landmark of choice. She was driven by fear, the fear that her parents were...dead. She shook her head to clear her thoughts. It just couldn't be true! No, no way! She came closer and closer to the truth until she landed right in front of the cemetery. She leaped over the locked gate and started searching graves. She kept looking and looking, knowing that any one of them could be her parents. She looked and looked and with each grave Luna's hope grew. Then all that hope was shattered into a million pieces that could not be scavenged. The two grave stones in front of her were the ones that she dreaded.

Sunny Day

Swift

Luna's mental stability was gone, thrown into an empty void. She broke down into a million tears, the grass being soaked by her tears. A million emotions ran through her mind. Anger, sadness, grief, acceptance, and sorrow. Luna kept crying until she felt a soft hoof on her shoulder. It was soft alright, but it was too small to be a regular pony. Luna turned her head to see a dark blue unicorn filly with a violet mane. The same filly that brought her joy and reflected the moon's beauty.

Crescent was looking at Luna and jumped onto her back and climbed up he neck onto her head. Words needn't be spoken for Crescent smiled and Luna smiled in return. Luna then realized the truth. Her parents may be dead, but she still has a family. She always did, now it's just growing. She only had Celestia before but now that she thought about it, she had Discord of all people, Philomena, and Cadence, along with Shining Armor and Twilight, and let's not forget the newest addition, Crescent! Luna smiled happily, she got her answers, she discovered the truth, found out her heritage, raising a daughter of her own and has a family. Crescent looked at her mother.

"Mommy, what do we do now?" Luna looked at her daughter and smiled.

"Now, Crescent, we go home."

Epilogue

It was a cool autumn day, the day that had started it all. A dark blue alicorn and her newly adopted daughter walked out of an orphanage. The dark blue filly was smiling big and was levitated onto her mother's back. It was official and the two could not have been happier. The filly looked around, gazing at all the large buildings, even though she had seen them before in the summer. The trees had their leaves painted a variation of red, yellow, and orange. The breeze sprinting through the air, snatching leaves from their branches and making them dance. The filly stuck her face up into the breeze and closed her eyes, the feeling of the wind was exhilarating!

Her mother rolled her eyes and giggled, she made her way down to the train station, the sun was just past it's high point in the sky and was focusing down on the pair. They knew where they were going, and they had already moved to their new home. They stood together as the train came rolling into the station, the brakes hissing like snakes as they slowed the vehicle. The two ponies handed the conductor their tickets and boarding the train. They both looked back at the large castle in the distance, the place where it had all began. As the train jerked forward and the two departed for home, the sun aimed itself on an item in the brush. The object glinted and caught the eye of a passing bystander. The pony looked closer at the item in the brush that was winking at him.

The clarity of the object was increased and the item was identified. In the brush of the bush was a long forgotten item, one that would not be remembered.

It was a dark blue tiara.